Is it just me that gets a bit frustrated with tape measures?
If you want to make a small measurement with the ususal tape measure, say, 5/8s, you can't, because the dang hook at the beginning of the tape hides almost the whole first inch! The rivets that hold on the hook don't help either.
I understand the companies are trying to make a tough hook stay attached to the end, but do they need to make it useless for small measurements?
If your in the shop, steel machinests ruler is best.
I have 6" ones placed at the assembly bench & table saw, little magnets keep them in place
so they dont get lost like pencils.
For those short measures I use a steel rule as well, usually the tape measure is too scuffed up on that first inch to read clearly anyway…maybe I just need to take better care of my tapes LOL!
As handy as they are, tape measures really aren't intended for really precise work. Those hooks are designed to stand up under pretty severe use where tolerances aren't really tight.
I like a small tape ruler, because I do small projects, but occasionally like to measure up to 8 feet or so. I like this Johnson one - it has a lot of great features, especially the clear hook piece. I just wish it wasn't so huge; I like to keep my tape in my little apron pocket, and this wouldn't be a good fit. Nice tape though, otherwise.
Steel rulers are nice, yes, but I don't think they come with an edge hook for easy measurement?
Maybe I ought to invent the ultimate woodworker (as opposed to carpenter) tape ruler, make a million bucks, and retire in Tahiti?
For small measurements, I use my 6 inch combination square, 12 inch for the slightly larger projects. When I am working on a cut list, I prefer a wooden, fold out ruler and a saddle layout gauge. If I am using the jointer/planer, calipers are pretty much a necessity. I have learned, over time, that my tape measure is nearly an 8th off on measurements if I use the hook. As others have stated, I usually start at the one foot marker for longer measurements and subtract a foot to zero in a little more accurately.
Tape measures become useless for exact measurements after the first time you drop it on the floor (and who hasn't) the hook bends with every drop, throwing off any acuracy.
If your "within" an inch--close enough !
Finish carpenters golden rule….Large gap use large trim to cover it, medium gap, medium trim, NO GAP--no trim---good carpenter work. lol
I don't use a tape for anything under 24". I find it much easier to use my matched set of steel rules than trying to handle a tape to measure for small stuff. Calipers and Dividers handle the really small measurements.
JJohnston.
Good point, I've measured on the one inch mark and ended up with one inch short cut pieces. The 10in mark is a much better idea.
Thanks for the tip, BTKS
I also use the steel rules in the shop but I prefer to transfer dimensions or marks whenever possible. No measuring errors or compounding error on each transfer. Makes my life a little easier.
Later.
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